We already brought you a list of the 50 Healthiest Foods of All Time. Now, we’ve gathered another 50, chosen by TIME editors and registered dietitian Alicia Romano from Tufts Medical Center. While most of us know the basics of how to eat well, sometimes putting together a menu for the week can be daunting. So we are providing you with lots of options. All these foods are highly nutritious and they’re also easy to find at the local grocery store. Bring this list on your next trip to the supermarket, select something new, and prepare it as simply as you like (we offer easy recipes and cooking tips too). Bon appétit!

Danny Kim for TIME

Harissa

Why it’s good for you: This spicy chili paste or powder is having a moment, and for good reason. Recipes for harissa can differ, but in general they usually contain a mixture of healthy ingredients like chili peppers, garlic, olive oil and spices. Chili peppers contain a compound called capsaicin, which is thought to have pain-relief and cancer-protective effects.

Goat Cheese

Why it’s good for you:Goat cheese can feel indulgent but it actually has less fat per serving than most other cheeses. It also contains protein, calcium and 3% of your daily dose of iron in just an ounce. (Some research has suggested that compared to cow milk, goat milk increases iron absorption and benefits your bones.) Still not convinced? Don’t forget that eating for pleasure is good for your health as well.

Popcorn

Why it’s good for you: Popcorn is a high-fiber food that should top your list of go-to snacks. We’re not talking about movie theater popcorn, of course. Air-popped popcorn without lots of melted butter and salty seasonings is best. On e study even suggested popcorn is more satisfying than potato chips possibly due its irregular shape and high volume.

How to eat it: Try making your popcorn on the stove, it’s simple and fast! Instead of butter, sprinkle some parmesan and a little salt.

Coconut

Why it’s good for you: Coconut is a healthy choice for people with a taste for richness. It has health benefits too. It contains a good helping potassium, which can help curb stroke risk, and some research has also shown that adding a little coconut water to rice and letting it cool makes it less caloric. Coconut water, however, is not a replacement for the real fruit, with some research suggesting the water doesn’t always meet its nutritional claims.

How to eat it: Keep unsweetened shredded coconut in your fridge and sprinkle it on a raw kale or collard green salad. With a tangy vinaigrette on top it’s just delicious, and the small amount of fat it adds makes the salad’s nutrients more bioavailable.

Grass-Fed Beef

Why it’s good for you: Grass-fed beef is lower in saturated fat than conventional beef and higher in “good fats” such as omega-3s, monounsaturated fatty acids, and conjugated linoleic acid. It’s also a great source protein and iron, which is important for growth and development.

Ghee

Why it’s good for you: Ghee is a clarified butter that is made by melting butter and skimming off some of the fat. It can be easier for some people to digest and is a staple of Indian cuisine. It also has a slightly nutty flavor. It’s high in vitamins and can be used as an alternative to cooking oils or butters.

How to eat it: Use ghee as a cooking tool for a new flavor and a commendable nutritional profile.

Canned Salmon

Why it’s good for you: Less expensive than fresh salmon, the canned version is one of the richest food sources of vitamin D which is good for bone health and calcium absorption. Its omega-3 fatty acids are another added bonus.

How to eat it: Canned salmon contains the small salmon bones, and you’ll definitely want to eat them—they’re a great source of calcium that our bodies can more easily absorb than plant sources of calcium. Frying salmon burgers with bread crumbs, eggs, spices, lemon zest and canned salmon, couldn’t be easier.

Spirulina

Why it’s good for you: Spirulina is a blue-green algae that is high in lots of vitamins, nutrients and antioxidants that protect cells. It’s also a good vegetarian source of protein. It can come in pill, powder or flake form, and it’s worth doing your research for a trusted variety.

Lemon

Why they’re good for you: This citrus fruit may be too acidic to eat as you would a milder orange, but it’s similarly high in vitamin C, which helps protect cells from damage and is needed by the body to make collagen, which is important for wound healing. Not to mention adding a little lemon zest to any meal adds a flavor kick.

How to eat it: The easiest way to get vitamin C into your diet without taking pills is to drink lemon water. It’s tasty, satisfying and some people swear that if you drink it in the morning, it kickstarts digestion for the day. More evidence is needed, but it can’t hurt—and it tastes great.

Tofu

Why it’s good for you: Tofu is a great plant-based protein source, and it’s high in calcium, protein and iron. Tofu also contains isoflavones, which have benefits related to heart health and a decreased risk of breast and prostate cancer.

How to eat it: Try the soft kind of tofu that has the consistency of jelly. It’s great raw in salads instead of hard-boiled eggs, and you can slice it and dredge in a little egg wash and pan fry for a great appetizer. Top with soy sauce mixed with sesame oil, green onion and black pepper and if you like it spicy, a little sriracha.

Purple Potatoes

Why they’re good for you: Like all spud varieties, purple potatoes are rich in potassium—which is needed for blood pressure management. What’s special about purple potatoes are their color, which comes from anthocyanin, a potent antioxidant that poses numerous health benefits like a lower risk for cardiovascular disease.

Nutritional Yeast

Why it’s good for you: Come for the crazy good flavor (nutty, savory and somehow cheesy) and stay for the nutritional punch. Nutritional yeast is a complete protein with all nine essential amino acids as well as zinc, selenium, B vitamins, protein and fiber. (Nutritional yeast is an inactive yeast that’s grown in a culture to make a seasoning rich in nutrients.)

How to eat it: Some people call this flaky nutritional powerhouse “vegan parmesan” but think of it more as a healthy B-vitamin-and-protein-laced umami bomb. It’s incredible on popcorn with a little olive oil and some spices. It’s also great as a thickener in pesto, or in any vegetable puree, including cauliflower, mashed potatoes, or “creamed” kale or spinach.

Oysters

Why they’re good for you: Oysters are a great source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, iron, calcium, zinc, and B12. Vitamin B12 is important since it keeps the body’s nerve and blood cells in good health. Sadly, the data on their effectiveness as an aphrodisiac is less robust.

How to eat it: Learning how to shuck oysters makes for a great party trick instead of simply offering guests the usual appetizer plate.

Mango

Why it’s good for you: This is a very versatile stone fruit, with colors that range from green with a reddish blush to bright yellow. Mangos are also chock full of vitamins and antioxidants, especially vision protective vitamin A: One whole mango provides 45% of your daily value.

Strawberries

Why they’re good for you: Strawberries are a good source of vitamin C and other compounds involved in metabolism and bone health. They’re also high in a subtype of flavonoids called anthocyanins, which are thought to be heart-healthy. A 2013 study of 93,600 women found those who ate more than three or more servings of 1/2 cup of strawberries or blueberries each week had a lower risk for heart attack.

Blackberries

Why they’re good for you: Blackberries in particular are high in fiber, which can increase how full and satisfied you feel after eating, as well as vitamins C, K and manganese. Research has also linked berry consumption to a wealth of benefits for the body and mind, like lower rates of cognitive decline. The compounds that make their colors so vibrant can also lower inflammation and support the immune system.

How to eat it: Bring two cups of steel-cut oats, a pinch of salt, and eight cups of water to a boil. Then turn off the heat, leave it overnight, and top it with blackberries.

Artichokes

Why they’re good for you: Artichokes have a meaty texture, and the vegetables are a nutritional powerhouse, rich in folate, dietary fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K and abundant in antioxidants such as quercetin and anthocyanins. When selecting a fresh artichoke to take home, pick one that’s heavy and firm (weight is less important with baby artichokes, of course).

How to eat it: Roasted artichokes take some preparation—you have to remove the tough outer leaves, peel the stem, chop off the top and then soak them in lemon water so they don’t brown—but the task can be meditative and the result is delicious. Serve with a simple dipping sauce of greek yogurt (or mayo, if you want a treat) mixed with garlic and curry.

Sauerkraut

Why it’s good for you: Sauerkraut is fermented cabbage that contains fiber and multiple vitamins that make it a good addition to your dinner plate. Sauerkraut is a good source of iron, manganese, copper, sodium, magnesium, and calcium. Not to mention it contributes a moderate amount of protein to your diet. Like other fermented foods, sauerkraut contains probiotics that benefit the gut and digestion.

How to eat it: You can do the fermenting yourself with this recipe for Red Sauerkraut or buy it pre-made and eat it on its own, with eggs, or mixed into salads or slaws.

Spaghetti Squash

Why it’s good for you: Spaghetti squash has one of the highest water contents of all the winter squash. It’s low in calories and can be used to substitute pasta in many recipes. It also yields a good dose of vitamin A, calcium, vitamin C and fiber.

How to eat it: Substitute it for pasta in your favorite dish. It won’t look exactly the same, but you’ll get a delicious vegetable overload. You can also strain them and form them into patties that you bake in the oven.

Apples

Why they’re good for you: There’s a reason “an apple a day” is a thing. Apples are rich in a type of fiber that can lower cholesterol levels, making them a heart healthy snack. One study found eating apples led people to eat 15% fewer calories at their next meal. Another perk? They’re helpful for regulating digestion.

How to eat it: Fry up some kale and then saute it with garlic and diced apples.

Wild Caught Cod

Why it’s good for you: Wild caught cod is a versatile and sustainable fish that is available throughout the year. Though the fish is lower in fat, a high percentage of its fat comes in the form of omega-3 fatty acids, which are associated with a decreased risk of cardiovascular disease.

Rhubarb

Why it’s good for you: Few leafy foods look as lovely as rhubarb with its deep red stalks and bright green leaves (just remember not to eat the latter, as they’re poisonous). It’s high in vitamins and folate, as well.

How to eat it: Forget jam or pie—try pickling your rhubarb for a savory kick.

Beet Greens

Why they’re good for you: It’s hard to compete with the deep reds of beets, but don’t toss the greens that sprout from them. The leaves of some beets, like golden and Chioggia varieties (which are striped on the inside!) are especially lush and thick, and can tossed into salads. They’re high in vitamin A and vitamin K, and a cup boasts 44 mg of calcium.

Purple Cauliflower

Why it’s good for you: Like purple potatoes, the unexpected shade of this cauliflower comes from the antioxidant anthocyanin. Cauliflower is low in calories and rich in fiber, vitamin C, folate, manganese, vitamin K and B6 (which is involved in metabolism and early brain development). Consider steaming or stir-frying cauliflower to keep nutrient levels high.

How to eat it: Steamed or roasted at 400 °F and then pureed. Add a glug of olive oil, salt and pepper, and at the end, toss in any fresh herbs you may have, such as thyme, rosemary or even mint and basil. Consider it a healthier and more elevated mashed potato.

Endive

Why it’s good for you: Endive is high in inulin and fiber, which can lower LDL cholesterol levels to benefit the heart. Endive is also a great source of vitamin A and beta-carotene as well as B vitamins, iron and potassium. Often used raw in salads or appetizers, cooked endive can taste sweet and nutty.

Snap Peas

Why they’re good for you: Small veggies are ideal snacks on the go since they’re high in nutrients and fiber—and they taste great raw. A good snap pea should look moist—when they are dry they taste more starchy. They’re also high in vitamins A, K, and C.

How to eat it: Snap peas are delicious plain or dipped into hummus, but if you want to mix it up a bit, drizzle some red wine vinegar or rice vinegar on top of them, mixed with a little oil, and serve.

Corn

Why it’s good for you: There may be no other vegetable more evocative of summer than corn, though there are certainly reasons to eat it year-round. One ear of corn has approximately the same calories as an apple, with equally high nutrient levels, too. Non-genetically modified corn is also loaded with lutein and zeaxanthin, two phytochemicals that promote healthy vision.

Pumpkin

Why it’s good for you: Pumpkin is not just for carving. Its seeds are high in potassium and magnesium, and pumpkin flesh is rich in beta carotene, which is good for the immune system. One cup of canned pumpkin contains 7g fiber and 3 grams of protein, which is helpful for regular digestion. Pumpkin also contains 50% of the daily value of vitamin K, which helps prevent blood clotting.

How to eat it: Make a toasted pumpkin seed pesto. Throw them in a food processor with basil, olive oil, parmesan, garlic and lemon juice. Or roast, puree and eat it as a side dish or mixed in with potatoes.

Kimchi

Why it’s good for you: Kimchi is the Korean version of fermented cabbage, and is loaded with vitamin A, B vitamins and vitamin C. Similar to sauerkraut, it contains healthy probiotics that regulate digestion. It adds a kick of flavor to almost any recipe.

Olives

Why they’re good for you: We know olive oil is a common ingredient in a healthy diet, but don’t forget about its source. Olives are high in healthy fat that can benefit your heart and brain and keep weight in check. Research has also suggested that olives are a good source of antioxidants that prevent the buildup of bad cholesterol in artery walls. They’re also a fermented food, and therefore are good sources of gut-friendly bacteria.

How to eat it: Pour them into a dish and serve, or slice them up and add them to any pasta recipe.

Asparagus

Why it’s good for you: Asparagus is a good source of folate, which is essential for a wide variety of body functions, as well as vitamins A, C and K. When purchasing asparagus, avoid spears with smashed tips, which will spoil more easily.

How to eat it: Use a peeler to cut asparagus into little ribbons to mix into salads. Also try them oven roasted whole at 375 °F for 12 minutes and then served with sunny side up eggs for breakfast. There’s something really fun about poking egg yolks with an asparagus spear.

Figs

Why they’re good for you: This fruit is high in both vitamins A and C, and have a unique taste that allows flexibility for both sweet and savory dishes. Avoid figs with bruises, but they should be a bit soft when you’re choosing which ones to bring home.

How to eat it: Pair them with healthy appetizers like almonds and cheese for your guests, or get cooking with these 20 Fantastic Fig Recipes.

Kohlrabi

Why it’s good for you: This peculiar-looking root vegetable has a pale green or purple bulb which sprout multiple stalks with dark leaves–and you can eat all its parts. Kohlrabi is a cousin to broccoli and cauliflower and is high in fiber and potassium.

Pork Tenderloin

Why it’s good for you: Pork tenderloin is now certified with the American Heart Association “heart check” mark, indicating it qualifies as an extra-lean and heart healthy meat. Additionally, it is an excellent source of protein, B vitamins and zinc.

Coffee

Why it’s good for you: There’s been back and forth on how much is too much when it comes to the morning cup-o-joe. But one study of 130,000 adults found no evidence that coffee increases the risk for health problems like heart disease or cancer, even among people who drank 48-ounces a day. The fact is, coffee is a complex drink containing hundreds of different compounds. Some of those include antioxidants that have been linked to a lower risk for type 2 diabetes, Alzheimer’s and liver cancer, Romano says. Keep in mind, that’s without added sugar and cream.

How to eat it: Brew yourself a cup in the morning and drink it as plain as possible—the health benefits come from the coffee, not the cream and sugar you add to it.

Ginger Root

Why it’s good for you: This twisted root is a natural remedy for nausea and motion sickness and has been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years. Not only does it pack a zingy flavor, it also contains compounds like beta-carotene and capsaicin, which provide all sorts of healing and immune supportive wonders to the body.

How to eat it: If you’re worried about having to buy a whole root and only using a little bit, wrap it and store in the freezer. Take it out and microplane it onto fish, chicken, salad dressings, or anywhere you need a little zing.

Tahini

Why it’s good for you: Tahini, which is made from ground sesame seeds, is a good way get in some calcium, iron, potassium and vitamin E. Just one tablespoon has 110 mg of phosphorus, too, which is critical for the formation of bones and teeth. It also works with B vitamins to help with nerve signaling, normal heartbeat, and muscle contractions.

How to eat it: Tahini is a great base for salad dressings and marinades for fish. It’s also a key ingredient in hummus.

Basil

Why it’s good for you: Basil, which is actually a member of the mint family, is the star ingredient in pesto. The oil extracts from basil leaves contain antioxidant compounds that combat inflammation. Also high in vitamins, it’s a simple way to add a touch of nutrition to many recipes, and it pairs well with hearty vegetables.

How to eat it: You can’t go wrong tossing it into Asian stir fries, onto pasta or pizza, and shredding it into salad. Tear or cut just before serving, and check out Cooking Light’s Guide to Basil.

Pistachios

Why they’re good for you: In addition to their heart-healthy fats, pistachios are rich in antioxidants, including lutein, beta-carotene and gamma-tocopherol. They are also high in vitamin A, which is important for vision and proper organ function. They’re delicious and surprisingly light for a nut: 50 kernels are only around 160 calories.

How to eat it: Keep pistachios in the fridge so you can regularly chop them up and toss them into salads, on top of roasted broccoli, and even into soups.

Spelt

Why it’s good for you: Spelt is becoming an increasingly popular grain due to its nutritional profile. Spelt includes complex carbohydrates, and is rich in both soluble and insoluble fiber, vitamin B2, niacin, manganese, thiamin, copper and magnesium. It even has fatty and amino acids, which are important for body function.

Sunflower Seeds

Why they’re good for you: Seeds, like sunflower seeds for example, are high in vitamin E which has antioxidant activity that’s good for immune function. One ounce of dry-roasted sunflower seeds contains 7.4 mg of vitamin E, which is 37% of your daily value.

How to eat them: Toss them on top of salads, in oatmeal, or pour a handful into a baggie and eat them as a snack.

Parsley

Why it’s good for you: Parsley is rich in many essential vitamins that play a role in bone, nervous system and immune health. This herb also contains flavonoids including apigenin, chrysoeriol, and luteolin—which is thought to have anti-inflammatory effects. Consider making parsley a kitchen staple if you haven’t already.

How to eat it: Buy a bunch on the weekend and use it on everything all week—it perks up pretty much any dish. Slice it super-thin and use it on top of pasta, mixed into salads, on top of a roast chicken breast, into a pesto puree or onto quinoa- or couscous-based salad.

Chili Flakes

Why they’re good for you: If chili paste is a little too hot for your liking, try adding just a touch of chili flakes to a dish—it works for pretty much anything savory—for something a little more subtle, but still palate-changing. Not to mention some research has shown spicy food can increase satiety and calorie burn.

How to eat it: Sprinkle onto eggs, pizza, avocado toast, or into a salad dressing of olive oil, garlic, lemon juice and parmesan.

Mint

Why it’s good for you: The aromatic herb has compounds in its leaves that have been used for centuries to treat digestive issues. Mint is also thought to have antimicrobial effects and antiviral effects, and is a soothing herb with unique flavor for cooking and for drinks. There are many different kinds, from spearmint to apple mint.

How to eat it: Add some mint to a bowl of berries, or into a grain-based dish for a new flavor.

Carrots

Why they’re good for you: Carrots have long been a go-to veggie, but did you know that they come in many different colors like reds, purples and yellow? Standard orange carrots contain vitamin A, which is essential for healthy sight. Colorful carrots also contain other healthy antioxidants like lycopene and beta-carotene pigment. Lycopene is the same pigment that gives tomatoes their bright red, and it’s linked to a lower risk of certain cancers.

How to Eat it: The simplest way to eat a carrot is to give it a wash and a good chomp.

Raw Peanut Butter

Why it’s good for you: Peanut butter is your friend, and you shouldn’t opt for a low-fat version. It’s high in filling fiber and protein, so just a little can go a long way when it comes to satisfying a sweet tooth.

How to eat it: Peanut butter is pretty self explanatory, but here are some techniques to try: Spread a tablespoon onto an apple or a large whole grain cracker and then dot it with sriracha hot sauce; put one to two tablespoons into an all-vegetable smoothie for added richness and fat; or swirl a small spoonful into your greek yogurt. (Why no one has invented peanut butter yogurt yet is beyond us.)

Amaranth

Why it’s good for you: Though it’s often referred to as a grain, amaranth is actually a seed that is rich in fiber and naturally gluten free, making it appropriate for people with celiac disease. In addition, it’s a complete protein and contains cholesterol lowering fiber.

It’s flu season again. Rather than getting caught up in mass hysteria, arm yourself against viral attack with practical ways to boost your immune system.

Prevention

Eat a rainbow of foods. When your immune system detects an enemy, it must rapidly draw vitamins and minerals from the blood to make white blood cell ninja fighters. If those vitamins aren’t there, you are vulnerable to a long, drawn-out battle. Make sure you are eating a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables. If your are doing this, you can be sure you are getting tons of immune boosting nutrients like vitamin A, E, C, B-6 and zinc. A healthy immune system is your best defense against infection.

You’re gonna need a breath mint – Garlic is a fantastic way to boost the immune system. It is a super anti-bacterial, anti-viral, and antibiotic food. Plus it makes food taste and smell delicious.

Getting enough sleep is crucial in optimizing immune response. So is decreasing stress. There it is again. Just get more sleep and don’t sweat the small stuff. Look for an upcoming blog on decreasing stress and increasing joy.

Getting adequate exercise has also been linked to lower incidence of infection. Just 20 minutes a day of brisk exercise can make a huge difference.

Avoid refined grains, sugary and starchy foods. Sugar suppresses the immune system. It seems that flu season, besides falling in the winter months, also occurs in the months when many of us are indulging in sweet treats a little more often.

Adequate levels of Vitamin D are essential to an immune system’s ability to quickly and effectively fight off infection. It’s also important for preventing osteoporosis, heart disease, cancer, depression, and dementia. Harvard Medical School asserts that as many as one third of Americans are deficient in Vitamin D. Vitamin D is produced in our bodies using sunlight that comes in contact with our largest organ: our skin. We can also get vitamin D through diet. Salmon is a good source, most milk is fortified with vitamin D and a good vitamin D3 supplement is great too (5,000 IU per day for adults). My favorite dietary source with a slew of other healthy benefits is fermented cod liver oil. The flu usually runs rampant in the winter months when direct sunlight is diminished in many areas of the world and people are bundled up and keeping indoors. This is why flu cases go down the farther south you track and disappear in summer months. Increasing your sun exposure (sans sunscreen) by 10 minutes a day is adequate for most people. If you live north of San Francisco, don’t bother doing this between November and March since the UV rays aren’t direct enough to make vitamin D. I would suggest a blood test to discover if you are deficient and supplementing through diet.

Getting Over the Flu Fast

So what if you get the flu? Well first you should make sure it is in fact influenza. Here’s Dr. Darla’s blog on how to correctly identify the symptoms of influenza. So if you have the flu, how can you get recover as quickly and as painless as possible?

Cut the sweets. Eating sugar will suppress your immune system from fighting off nasty bugs. I know it’s comforting to eat, but sweets will only make it worse.

I’m going to suggest vitamin D again. Taking several thousand IU per day of a good D3 supplement can shorten the duration of infection. It’s pretty hard to overdose on D, and when I’m sick I take a medicinal dose of about 20,000 IU per day. Also, vitamin C in large amounts can greatly speed up your recovery. It’s pretty much impossible to overdose on C, so take at least 5,000 mg per day or more. Zinc prevents a virus from replicating.

When I feel the “ick”, I like to take a detox bath. It really lessens my symptoms and shortens the duration of my illness. Here’s a link to the recipe. Detox Bath

If you are pregnant, make sure to consult your physician before taking a detox bath.

Get lots of sleep. Your workplace will get the job done without you. They don’t need you spreading around the flu either. Stay home and sleep, sleep, sleep.

Cinnamon is anti-viral and anti-bacterial too. Mix 1 tablespoon cinnamon with one teaspoon of honey and mix it into an herbal tea.

Since the flu is usually accompanied by fever, it will often lead to dehydration. Make sure you stay hydrated with lots of broth or chicken soup. Broth isn’t just comforting flu food, it has lots of immune boosting nutrients. Herbal teas and hot lemon water help too. Nettle leaf tea has a huge amount of vitamins and minerals and detoxifies the body. Other herbs that help fight flu are elderberry, yarrow, ginger, chamomile, and peppermint. Consult your local herbalist for the correct ways to use these herbs. Fever is the body’s natural defense for killing a virus, so using drugs to stop a fever can actually prolong an illness. To keep a fever out of the dangerous zone, without killing it completely, I use peppermint essential oil on the bottom of my feet. Make sure you do plenty of research into the safe use of essential oils before trying this one.

Whatever natural remedy or prevention method you choose, make sure it will not interfere with any medications you are taking and try them one at a time. Stay healthy and disease free this season. And most importantly, your thoughts are more effective than any vaccine or remedy. If you think you’re immune to the flu with absolute, fearless certainty, I’m willing to bet it’ll pass you by.

Important Notes: I am not a doctor, nor do I claim to be a doctor. I cannot treat, cure, prevent or diagnose any illness. If you have concerns about any illness, talk to your doctor. Do you own research on natural remedies to ensure that you think they are safe.

Merianne Drew is a holistic health coach specializing in integrative and energetic nutrition. She coaches individuals to better health by teaching practical ways to incorporate healthy eating and lifestyle choices. Find out if health coaching is a good fit for you by scheduling a health strategy session. meriannedrew@gmail.com

(CNN) — As our energy levels decrease because of our overstressed lifestyles, many people look for a quick fix to combat fatigue.

Energy drinks mask the symptoms of fatigue and dehydrate the body. The majority of energy drinks contain excess sugar, high levels of caffeine and other stimulants.

Recently, the 5-hour Energy shot and Monster Energy drink have come under fire.

The Food and Drug Administration said this month that 13 deaths have been reported after consumption of 5-hour Energy. Last month, the parents of a 14-year-old girl filed suit, alleging that she died after drinking two Monster Energy drinks in a 24-hour period. Anais Fournier’s underlying heart condition was complicated by caffeine toxicity, according to the death certificate.

FDA checks reports on energy shot

Relying on caffeine and energy drinks makes us feel worse in the long run by causing our system to crash.

Continued fatigue decreases the immune system, making us more susceptible to depression and illness.

So what to do? Exercise, sleep and reducing stress are important in fighting fatigue. But our eating habits also directly affect energy levels. And nutrition can affect energy levels throughout the day.

Being hydrated is an easy and inexpensive way to increase energy levels. You don’t need vitamin water or sports drinks; they only add extra unneeded calories. Keep a fresh water source with you at all times and drink throughout the day. Add lemons, limes or oranges for taste variety.

Eat breakfast

This is the meal that sets the stage for the entire day. Studies show that breakfast helps keep you alert, starts your metabolism for the day and keeps you satisfied until lunch.

But a healthy breakfast is the key. Good options include whole-grain cereals, breads, fruit and lean protein instead of doughnuts, pastries and white breads. A hard-boiled egg sliced into a whole wheat pita, oatmeal with fruit, and whole-grain toast with natural peanut butter are all healthy choices.

Don’t forget protein

Not consuming enough protein during the day can be a primary reason for fatigue. Protein-based foods provide the body with fuel to repair and build tissues. Protein takes longer than carbohydrates to break down in the body, providing a longer-lasting energy source. You can find protein in poultry, fish, lean red meat, nuts, milk, yogurt, eggs, yogurt, cheese and tofu.

Keep your carbs smart

Carbohydrates are the body’s preferred source of fuel. Pick whole grains like cereal, brown rice and whole wheat bread, and avoid sweets, which cause energy to plummet. Many processed carbohydrates contain little to no fiber. Always read the nutrition label.

Snacks are important

If you let yourself get too hungry between meals, your blood sugar falls, and you get lethargic. Keep your blood sugar and energy level steady during the day by consuming snacks. Choosing the right snacks prevent peaks and valleys in energy.

Combine complex carbs with a protein and/or fat for lasting energy. The protein and fat slow the breakdown of sugar into the blood, preventing fatigue. Snacks also can prevent overeating at mealtimes. A few examples of smart snack choices are yogurt with fruit, mixed nuts, veggies with hummus, pears with almond butter, whey protein shake or blueberries with a cheese stick. Plan ahead!

Almonds, walnuts and Brazil nuts are rich in magnesium, a mineral important in converting carbohydrates into energy. Other good sources of magnesium include whole grains and dark green vegetables.

Don’t skimp on calories

Skimping on calories decreases your metabolism and causes you to feel lethargic. Keep your energy levels high and increase metabolism by meeting your caloric needs each day. Whole foods are preferred over supplements to obtain protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals instead of one or two single nutrients. Consume a variety of foods for overall health but also to keep your energy levels high.

With the new year upon us, many are thinking about making New Year’s Resolutions. What exactly is a resolution and why are they so important? According to Webster’s Dictionary, resolution comes from the verb resolve meaning: to make a definite and serious decision to do something. This is no light-hearted, passing emotion. This is a serious commitment to act!

Are you thinking about making a healthy resolution this year? Maybe you want to make a commitment to eat better overall. Maybe you want to lose X number of pounds or gain X number of pounds. Maybe you want to finally stop feeling fatigued all the time or you want to get more sleep. Whatever your goal, it is noble and good for you to want to better your health.

But what if you’ve made this goal before? What if you weren’t able to follow-through? Many people think they don’t follow-through with their goals because they lack motivation or they somehow “lost” their motivation.

Have you ever finished a grade in school? Have you ever raised kids and put them through college? Have you ever made plans to meet a friend for lunch and shown up when and where you promised? What if following through on your goals or promises has nothing to do with motivation? Motivation is all about how you feel at a particular moment. What if follow-through has nothing to do with how you are feeling at any time?

When you met your friend for lunch, it happened because you gave your word. When you did the grocery shopping, it happened because you decided to do it, you made a list, you planned to drive to the store after work, and you made it happen. You were resolved. Your commitment becomes your motivation causing action regardless of how “motivated” you feel.

When you decide to do something and then do it, your subconscious mind files it as a success and it contributes to your self-confidence and self-trust. When you make a decision to do something and then fail to do it, your sub-conscious mind files it as a failure. This failure eats away at your self-confidence and your sense of self-trust. Every time you break a promise to yourself, your self-trust erodes just a little more. It’s just the same as if someone else in your life continually breaks promises. You learn not to trust them. You learn to not expect them to follow-through. In fact, you begin to expect them to not deliver on a commitment.

So what if your self-trust has been eroded by breaking big and small commitments to yourself? What if it is so eroded that you immediately roll your eyes at yourself as soon as you make a commitment to better health. While you’re taking a drag from your cigarette, you’re saying to yourself, “I knew you wouldn’t be able to do it. You have no willpower!”

Rebuilding Self-Trust

First, I recommend taking baby steps. Make a list every day of 5 small things you want to accomplish. Start with things you would do anyway like taking out the garbage, making breakfast or doing a load of laundry. As you start checking off these small tasks, your subconscious mind will start filing them away as successes. You’ll start looking forward to checking off the tasks as each one will gives you a small boost in confidence. As you rebuild your self trust, you’ll start adding more ambitious tasks like going to bed on time, turning off the t.v. after one hour of viewing, enjoying 4 servings of vegetables, drinking 6 glasses of water. Keeping promises to yourself is not about seeking perfection. It’s about trusting yourself to not be overcome by failures; to get up again when you fall.

Second, limit your time with people who erode your self-trust. These are naysayers who probably don’t trust themselves either. These people like to chip away at your self-esteem and undermine your confidence. They point to your past deficiencies as proof of your inability to succeed. Ask yourself, “Does he support my goals? Does she encourage me to do better?” Avoid those who do not.

Third, work on changing your self-talk. Everyone has those Mean Voices inside their heads. Your head is a dangerous neighborhood. Don’t go up there alone! Make a conscious decision to change your self-talk from self-sabotage to self-love. When you fail to keep a promise to yourself and start to think things like, “You’re such a failure. You can’t follow-through on anything!” catch yourself and replace the negative thought with a positive one like, “It was just a small slip-up. I’ll do better next time” or “That was a big mistake. I’ll learn from it and I love myself anyway.”

Cynthia Wall, psychotherapist and author of The Courage to Trust: A Guide to Building Deep and Lasting Relationships, says, “Trust is the heartbeat of every significant relationship, with yourself as well as with others. In fact, the relationship with yourself is the foundation of all other relationships.” Learning to forgive yourself when you make a mistake makes it easier to forgive others. This has amazing health benefits for your own stress reduction too.

When you start building your self-trust back up again, you can begin to tackle those big, hairy, audacious goals (BHAG). Make sure to break up each goal into a set of smaller, easy-to-measure daily or weekly goals. This way even if you haven’t met your ultimate goal yet, you can check off your successes knowing that each small success is bringing you one step closer to your big success. One step closer to your fulfilling your resolution.

From Me to You – I noticed a big difference in my Energy levels and Happiness/Harmony after drinking atleast 33 oz. of Electrolyte-Infused Water

Electrolyte-Infused Water: Is It Worth It? (Plus How to DIY)

Lately, I’ve been a little obsessed with electrolyte-enhanced water. The other day, there was a sale at the store–10 bottles for $10–and my eyes did that whirly jackpot thing, cartoon character-style. What’s going on here?

Water with electrolytes isn’t exactly new–it flowed (heh) into the mainstream bottled-water scene about five years ago, and now you can find it on shelves in just about every grocery store. Electrolyte-enhanced waters have things like potassium and sodium added to them, which help your body absorb the water more quickly. These electrolytes are helpful in preventing dehydration, so they’re especially useful during and after intense workouts. But filtered tap water is A-OK for shorter workouts and day-to-day hydration.

Of course, doing it yourself won’t be exactly like the stuff on the shelves–brands like SmartWater, for example, are also “vapor-distilled,” and most brands are also flavorless–but as someone who’s shelled out more than she probably needs to on bottles to drink post-workout, I love having these cheaper options at the ready.

Do you drink electrolyte-enhanced water–or just go for the regular stuff? Are you a sportsdrink fan?

What is the Daniel Diet?

The Daniel Diet is a 10-day transformation that goes beyond simple weight loss. As a Community, we eat together, pray together and support each other through a dynamic 10-day journey.

What Can I Expect?

We have gone through two community-wide Daniel Diets this year, one in January and another in March. Combined, over 400 people have joined us in our community-wide Daniel Diets. We have also had dozens of small groups start their own Daniel Diet experience. Here’s just a sampling of the results:

Weight Loss for Women – The average weight loss for women who completed the 10-day Daniel Diet was 8.3 pounds

Weight Loss for Men – The average weight loss for men who completed the 10-day Daniel Diet was 14 pounds.

Energy Gain – Many people reported elevated energy levels, with many people indicating that energy levels rose significantly after day 3.

Detoxification – The combination of raw, organic, non-GMO foods and the “fasting” periods that are a part of the Daniel Diet make it one of the best detoxification programs you will ever find.

Spiritual renewal – A vital part of the Daniel Diet is the fact that we do this as a community. We have dozens of testimonials from past Daniel Dieters that speak to the unique spiritual nature of the 10-days and what it has meant in terms of spiritual growth.